Q: Can I send the OSR outside the province?

A: No. Only copies of material in the OSR can be sent, and then only upon receipt of a signed release from the parent, or the student over the age of 18.


Q: Can I send the OSR to private schools?

A: Yes, provided they are recognized by the Ministry of Education. (See MOE web site). To verify if a school is recognized, have the school include that information with their request for the OSR, or contact the Ministry of Education.


Q: Do I store the Office Index Card in the OSR?

A: No. The Office Index Card must be stored separately and must remain in the school for 55 years after the student retires. It is never forwarded with an OSR.


Q: A parent of a student 18 years of age or over wants to see their son or daughter's OSR. Does he/she have the right?

A: Not unless the student gives permission for the parent to do so. Viewing should be done in the presence of a school official.


Q: A parent of a student under the age of 18 wants to see their son or daughter's OSR. Does he/she have the right?

A: Yes. In the absence of a court order forbidding access, either parent has the right to see the OSR. Again, viewing should be done in the presence of a school official.


Q: A student wants to see his/her OSR. Does he/she have the right?

A: Yes, Any student at any age has the right, again in the presence of a school official.

Q: A police constable wants to see the OSR of a student. Can he/she view the OSR?

A: Unless the constable has a court order or a signed release from the parent or student, acces would be denied.


Q: What information must be kept in the OSR and for how long?

A: Report cards, documentation file (including mature PLAR documentation), the original IPRC decison and the OST must be kept for 5 years after retirement. The pricnipal can do an annual review to remove material not conducive to the education of the student. The folder, and the OST, must be kept for 55 years, either in hard-copy or in an electronic or filmed version.


Q: An agency phones to find out what schools the student attended. Can I provide that information?

A: Such information should only be provided upon receipt of a signed release from the parent or student over the age of 18. Central board personnel can inform an agency which school would hold the OSR if the student is a current student.



Q: When does an OSR leave the school?

A:
  • An OSR can be sent to another school in Ontario.
  • An OSR can accompany a school official to an IPRC meeting.
  • An OSR can be presented at a court hearing upon receipt of a court order. The original and a copy can be taken to court and the copy, stamped and signed by a board official, should be offered first. A judge may require that the original be entered into evdience.
  • An OSR cannot be sent out of the province, and it should never be taken home by a staff member.